Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

Andrew (Andy) L. Bero, age 64, of 41 Seymour Road and Hilltop Drive in Akwesasne, was born in Frogtown on August 8, 1946, the fourth of eight children born to Angus and Mildred Bero.

Andrew was a graduate of Salmon River Central High School’s class of 1966. His first career was in the construction field where he joined fellow Mohawk men working on “high steel”. His work took him to Central New York State, Boston, Texas and California before returning to Akwesasne to train to be a welder. Andy completed an associate of arts degree in Liberal Arts from Mater Dei College. He was night manager at Bear’s Den Trading Post and Restaurant while earning his undergraduate degree in Political Science from St. Lawrence University. Andy was employed by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation as a Highway Traffic Safety Act Enforcement Officer and was scheduled to retire in July. Andy was an avid golfer, hockey, and basketball fan. His favorite role was granddad to Rakennoresta who will miss him greatly along with their ATV rides and meals at Bear’s Den.

Andy died in Ottawa on Sunday, June 12, 2011 enjoying his favorite summertime game, golf. He leaves behind his wife and high school sweetheart, Doris Cook, daughter Mena and grandson Rakennoresta and chosen daughter Annie; sisters Eleanor, Lucille, Loretta, and Connie; brothers Allan, Walter and Carl in addition to and many nieces and nephews. Andy was predeceased by his parents, sister Genevieve, brother Gerald and nephew Robert (Bobby) Ward Jr.

Visitation will be held at the Kateri Hall on Wednesday June 15 at 6:00 PM until the time of the funeral mass tentatively scheduled for 2:00 PM on Friday June 17th at the St. Regis Catholic Church in Kanatakon, the memorial meal will follow at the Cedar View Golf Course. His remains will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in his memory to the Akwesasne Freedom School, P.O. Box 290, Rooseveltown, NY 13683. Arrangements are with the West Branch of the Lahaie and Sullivan Funeral Home in Cornwall.